Flooding Update
The likelihood of further flooding is decreasing in most parts of the country with the end of the kiremt (June to October) rains, according to the Disaster Risk Management and Food Security Sector (DRMFSS), and no new incidents of flooding have been reported in the past two weeks. The latest National Meteorological Agency forecast predicts below-normal rainfall in the eastern half of the country in the coming months, including the pastoral areas of Borena zone (Oromia), South Omo zone (SNNPR) and the southern zones of Somali Region, despite the potential for further flooding during the forthcoming short rainy seasons. Similarly, FEWSNET reports that the formation of a La Niña phenomenon in the central Pacific Ocean is associated with drier-than-normal conditions across the eastern Horn of Africa, although above-average rains may still be seen in the western Horn, which covers western parts of Ethiopia (Gambella and Benishangul Gumuz regions). The Ministry of Water Resources (MoWR) reports that the water levels in dams and rivers around the country are being closely monitored. Controlled water discharge has started from Koka and Gilgel-Gibe dams with all precautionary measures undertaken, including construction of reservoirs and gorges to channel the water released from the dams to prevent destruction of property and infrastructure in downstream areas. DRMFSS has dispatched teams to assess the situation and analyze associated risks in the areas surrounding the dams. DRMFSS also deployed multidisciplinary incident management teams to Somali (Gode), Gambella and Afar regions to monitor the development of flood situations there. Preparations are underway to send similar teams to South Omo zone (SNNPR).
Meanwhile, the findings of a joint assessment in Gambella Region indicate that flash and river flooding temporarily displaced some 26,000 people and damaged 1,280 hectare of cropland in Lare, Itang, Gambella Zuria and Gog woredas and Gambella town. According to the report, the emergency requirements of the affected population have been addressed in timely fashion, with food aid distributions conducted in August and early September, and non-food items, including plastic sheets, blanket and jerry cans, provided. Water guard and oral-rehydration solutions (ORS) have also been dispatched to the affected population. The report recommends continued emergency food aid distributions to the 26,048 people displaced and provision of corn-soya blend (CSB) for 35 per cent of the affected population. Additional plastic sheeting, mosquito nets and water treatment chemicals are among the prioritized needs. Provision of early-maturing seeds is recommended ahead of the upcoming recession farming period. Veterinary interventions, including livestock treatment and vaccination valued at two million birr, have also been included in the report. For more information contact: ocha-eth@un.org